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  by pltm
• Jan 25, 2023
• 4

(PLTM) - The Government has announced plans to update the 32-year-old Road Traffic Act to increase fines and target the hot-button issue of noise pollution in the Territory.

This was part of a package of legislative plans announced by Governor John Rankin when he delivered the Speech from the Throne on behalf of the Government under the theme, ‘Resilience, Revenue, Reform, And Recovery: The Virgin Islands In Transition.’

“Government will also seek to amend the Road Traffic Act (CAP. 218) to modernise the legislation with an emphasis on further development,” Governor Rankin announced.

He pointed out that since being enacted in 1988, significant developments and advancements in motor vehicle technology and road traffic systems have evolved while the fines and penalties have remained unchanged.

“An amendment to the Road Traffic Act (CAP. 218) will update traffic fines and penalties used to regulate and control road traffic,” the Governor assured.

He said the Road Traffic Act (CAP. 218) will also address vehicular noise pollution, modernise speed limits, address vehicles transporting unsecured items or materials, and upgrade roadways to be more accessible for differently-abled persons.

Police Commissioner Mark Collins believes that significant progress has been made in addressing the issue of noise nuisance from motorbike and scooter riders.

During the Standing Finance Committee (SFC) discussions, Territorial Member, Hon. Carvin Malone asked what is being done to rectify the disturbances from altered mufflers on bikes and scooters.

Collins stated when he first assumed the role as Commissioner it was a constant complaint and significant improvement has been made and will continue the efforts by having those bikes seized.

Hon. Marlon Penn, Minister for Health and Social Development and Member for the Eighth District asked what happened after a bike is seized.

The Top Cop stated that most are not road worthy and some are crushed, others are stripped for parts and others are auctioned. Penn then asked for the reasoning of having the bikes seized.

Collins in response stated that bikes are seized for being unlicensed and uninsured or faulty. He also stated that persons are given the opportunity to come with their papers and claim their bike and stated that many were cleared from the Road Town Police Station recently.

Meanwhile, Hon. Penn raised the issue of loud car speakers which he said needs to be addressed.

The Commissioner of Police stated that he had several conversations with the Attorney General and Director of Public Prosecution. In order to prove a case, there will have to be evidence of decibels recorded.

To this end, Collins stated that the kit was obtained and officers would need to be trained.

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